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Regional resources buffer the impact of functional limitations on perceived autonomy in older adults with multiple illnesses

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 17:44 authored by Benjamin SchuezBenjamin Schuez, Westland, JN, Wurm, S, Tesch-Romer, C, Wolff, JK, Warner, JK, Schwarzer, R
Retaining perceptions of autonomy is a key component of successful aging. Perceived autonomy refers to the capacity to make and enact self-directed decisions. These perceptions are often threatened in older adults with multiple illnesses, when functional limitations resulting from these illnesses impede the enactment of self-directed decisions. Regional resources (in Germany specifically at the level of administrative districts) might counteract these impediments of autonomy. Economically stronger districts can provide more-concrete support resources for older adults, buffering the negative effect of functional limitations on self-perceived autonomy. This study assessed participants aged over 65 with 2 or more chronic conditions. In total, n = 287 provided data (Mage = 73.3, SD = 5.07), and n = 97 were women. Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita was used as a proxy measure of administrative district wealth in Germany. Hierarchical multilevel regression analyses with cross-level interactions were conducted. Results suggest that the detrimental effect of functional limitations on perceived autonomy is less pronounced for participants residing in higher GDP districts. Conversely, for participants in lower GDP districts, the effect is exacerbated. This finding suggests that districts with greater financial resources might be better able to invest in supports that promote and facilitate autonomy and, thus, provide a buffer against threats to individual perceived autonomy.

History

Publication title

Psychology and Aging

Volume

31

Pagination

139-148

ISSN

0882-7974

Department/School

School of Psychological Sciences

Publisher

Amer Psychological Assoc

Place of publication

United States

Rights statement

© 2015 American Psychological Association

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Behaviour and health

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